Agency supports licensing for ski lift mechanics

AUGUSTA, Maine — The Maine state agency that investigated last winter’s lift accident at Sugarloaf ski resort has recommended that ski lift mechanics be licensed.

The Maine Elevator and Tramway Safety Board voted unanimously Monday in favor of licensing standards for lift mechanics. The recommendation must be approved by the Legislature to go into effect.

The Portland Press Herald said the state’s chief ski lift safety inspector told the board that there was no single cause for the Dec. 28 accident, but said a mechanic attempted an improper adjustment on the misaligned lift just before it derailed, sending chairs plummeting 25-35 feet.